Since its debut in 2007, Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed franchise has featured protagonists from throughout history. Most fans can probably count on one hand the assassins that have left a lasting impression, but Eivor, the protagonist of Assassin's Creed Valhalla, has truly become the MVP of the entire series.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla has become the highest-selling game in the franchise and has even earned praise from some of Hollywood's most iconic creators. A lot of this is due to the refinement of the gameplay and the streamlining of the narrative. The story follows Eivor doing their best to keep their clan safe and build alliances with others in England during the reign of King Alfred. Historically speaking, Valhalla flips the script and places players in the role of vikings, historically viewed as the villains during their invasion of England. In doing so, the franchise once again challenges black and white notions of history and offers a unique opportunity to explore what it's like to fight for something more tangible than a creed.
From Ezio Auditore to Bayek of Siwa, the Assassin's Creed franchise has shown players how history can test a hero's character. However, the new RPG style of gameplay implemented during Assassin's Creed Origins establishes a new level of freedom and expression. Valhalla perfects this gameplay style,just in time for Eivor's introduction. In the past, assassins struck from high up and used parkour and deception to eliminate their foes. Eivor is much more like a bull, ditching intricate acrobatics for charging and stomping, using whatever they can to kill their targets.
First and foremost, Eivor is extremely customizable. Players can opt for a male or female Eivor, and change their gender as often as they like. Valhalla promotes player expression with various tools to make Eivor resemble whoever is playing, along with weapons that fit any playstyle. From color schemes to tattoos, players can put themselves in the game in more ways than Assassin's Creed Odyssey allowed, making Eivor feel more personal than ever.
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In Valhalla, players can choose how Eivor responds to multiple in-world dialogues, with each choice affecting the outcome of the mission. However, each answer Eivor gives feels very in tune with how the character would respond. Essentially, no matter what option is chosen, Eivor can respond in the most appropriate way while still staying in character. This makes every choice feel much more real, depending on how the player wants to sculpt their character in the narrative.
For example, with Eivor helping to lead a clan, some of the best story moments can stem from playing Eivor as a kind and caring leader with the heart of a viking and a desire for battle. This allow for some great character moments, but it also allows for some amazing dialogue before a battle.
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